Preparation Products
Certification Preparation Materials
We are pleased you are beginning the journey of HRCI certification. Whether you are preparing for your aPHR™, PHR®, PHRca®, SPHR®, GPHR®, PHRi™ or SPHRi™exam, you will find a number of preparation materials below, designed to meet your unique learning style.
HRCI exams are based on generally accepted HR principles. There is no one preparation method that can meet every examinee's needs. The key to an examinee's success is to (1) know where the knowledge and competency gaps are, (2) prepare for the exam in a manner that aligns with their learning style and (3) use a variety of preparation resources to ensure they thoroughly understand those HR principles.
This reference page is designed to include:
- Preparation materials from independent authors that have been, and are currently available, on the market.
- A variety of resources, designated by learning type, to assist you in your preparation.
HRCI's Exam Preparation Provider Directory
This directory will allow exam candidates to search for upcoming preparation courses or programs through an interactive map! If your organization would like to be added to this map, please email us at products@hrci.org.
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To send comments on this page or if you have questions, contact products@hrci.org.
Click on Product Name or scroll down for additional details.
| CERTIFICATION | PRODUCT NAME | FORMAT | LENGTH | PRICE | # OF PRACTICE Questions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| aPHR | aPHR™ Study System by Distinctive HR |    | 3 | $$$ | 1,000+ practice questions, online learning tools including skits and topic lectures. | |
| aPHR | aPHR™ Certification Exam Prep by BenchPrep HR | | 3 | $$ | Over 700 practice questions and 1500 flashcards | |
| aPHR | aPHR™ Certification Preparation Program: Print AND Online with Audio Reader by HRCP | | 1 | $$ | 100 questions, flash cards | |
| aPHR | aPHR™ WORKBOOK Package by HRReview | | 1 | $$ | Audio CD, flashcards, unlimited online final exams. | |
| PHR | PHR® Exam Prep - 3rd Edition by Pearson |  | 2 | $ | 175 questions | |
| PHRca | PHRca® Preparation Independent Self-Paced Study Course by CalHRSuccess | | ||||
| PHRca | CalChamber California Labor Law Digest (57th edition) | | 2 | $ | No sample questions, this product is best used as a reference | |
| PHRca | PHRca® Exam Preparation Study Guide by HR Coach | | 1 | $$ | 200 online practice exam questions, and nine pre-recorded lectures on video. | |
| SPHR | SPHR® Exam Prep 3rd Edition by Pearson | | 2 | $ | 343 questions | |
| PHR | PHR® Certification Preparation by BenchPrep | | 2 | $$ | 1,500+ questions, 700+ flashcards, 3 timed full-length exams, 60 instructional videos | |
| SPHR | SPHR® Certification Preparation by BenchPrep | | 2 | $$ | 1,300+ questions, 700+ flashcards, 3 timed full-length exams, 60 instructional videos | |
| PHR/SPHR | PHR®/SPHR® Certification Preparation by Distinctive HR | | 2 | $ | 130 in book plus hundreds on disc | |
| PHR/SPHR | PHR®/SPHR® Certification Preparation by HRCP | | 3 | $$ | 14 practice tests online | |
| PHR/SPHR | Human Resource Management-Mathis | | 2 | $$ | Critical thinking questions at the end of each chapter, but no mulitple choice style questions. | |
| PHR/SPHR | PHR®/SPHR®WORKBOOK Package by HRReview | | 2 | $$$ | 500+ questions | |
| PHR/SPHR | PHR®/SPHR® Study Guide by Reed/Bogardus | | 2 | $ | 130 in book plus hundreds on disc | |
| GPHR | GPHR® Certification Preparation by Distinctive HR | | 2 | $$ | 900 practice questions | |
| GPHR | G2nd Systems - Global Professional in Human Resources Preparation Course | | 3 | $$ | 700+ | |
| GPHR | GPHR® Study Materials: Online Editions by IHRCI | | 2 | $$ | 800 pre-test and post-test exam questions | |
| GPHR | GPHR® WORKBOOK Package by HRReview | | 3 | $$$ | Practice questions at the end of each section | |
| PHRi | PHRi™ Study Materials: Print and Online Editions by HRCP | | 2 | $$ | 220 online and timed questions (by functional area) +100 online comprehensive practice exam | |
| PHRi | PHRi™ Study Materials: Online Editions by IHRCI | | 2 | $$ | 800 pre-test and post-test exam questions | |
| SPHRi | SPHRi™ Study Materials: Print and Online Editions by HRCP | | 1 | $$ | 142 online and timed questions (by functional area) +100 question online comprehensive practice exam | |
| SPHRi | SPHRi™ Study Materials: Online Editions by IHRCI | | 2 | $$ | 800 pre-test and post-test exam questions | |
| aPHR, PHR, SPHR, PHR/SPHR Package, GPHR, PHRca, PHRi, SPHRi | Practice Exams by HRCI | | 1 | $ |
Retail Price
$ = Up to 100 USD
$$ = 101-400 USD
$$$ = 401+ USD
Length (# of pages)
1 = up to 500
2 = 501-800
3 = 801+
Format
= Audio
= Book
= CD
= Online
aPHR™ Study System by Distinctive HR
Publisher's Description
The physical aPHR Self-Study Course includes a study guide (paperback), a set of downloadable audio files (not an audio book; the information in the files builds on the book’s main ideas), and access to our Learning Management System (LMS) for 1 year from the date your order is processed. The LMS resources include interactive flashcards, sample quizzes and tests (including a final exam), training games, and recorded lecture videos that coincide with the study materials. The aPHR Self-Study LMS has ~1000 practice questions. International candidates will receive the digital aPHR Self-Study version provides access to the same LMS, as well as the downloadable audio files, and a PDF version of the book.
Retailers
aPHR™ Certification Exam Prep by BenchPrep HR
Publisher's Description
The aPHR™ Certification Exam Prep by BenchPrep HR is the most comprehensive online and mobile self-study aPHR exam preparation program. With over 2.5 million users worldwide, BenchPrep software is recognized as an expert in learner success globally and delivers an unmatched experience that has resulted in a pass rate for learners that is 55% higher than average.
Retailers
aPHR™ Certification Preparation Program: Print AND Online Edition with Audio Reader by HRCP
Publisher's Description
aPHR Certification Preparation Program: Print AND Online Edition includes:
- 400+ pages of content covering the 6 functional areas tested on the exam; both Print AND Online Editions are included
- 300+ HR QuikStudy Flash Cards; provided in both print and electronic formats
- Practice exams with answers, feedback, and page references
- An Audio Reader as part of the Online Books; internet connection required
- The Online Guide for Successful Exam Preparation, includes study and test taking tips
- An Index and Key Terms; search feature in the Online Edition
- Sample study schedules available on HRCP's website
Internet access is required to view the Online Edition and to take the online practice exams. An up-to-date browser is required. The online content cannot be printed, copied or downloaded.
Orders are shipped via UPS who will not deliver to a PO Box. Please provide a physical shipping address if your address is in the USA.
Once shipped, HRCP will email you the tracking number and instructions on accessing the online materials.
Retailers
aPHR™ WORKBOOK Package by HRReview
Publisher's Description
The aPHR™ WORKBOOK Package contains comprehensive study outlines for each of the HR Certification Institute aPHR Exam Content Outline functional areas, exam tips, important employment and labor legislation, and several hundred multiple-choice questions with detailed answers and the rationale for the correct answers. Also included is the AudioReview CD package with recorded terms and definitions, electronic and downloadable printed flashcards, a free audio coaching session, and unlimited online final exams and the eBook, Human Resource Management Essential Perspectives by Mathis, Jackson and Valentine.
Retailers
PHR® Exam Prep - 3rd Edition by Pearson
Publisher's Description
Score Higher on the PHR® Exam! We provide you with the proven study tools and expert insight that will help you score higher on your exam. Prep includes: Study Tips like the advice and instruction that a personal tutor might provide; Notes, Tips, and Cautions provide you with hints and strategies that will help you reduce your mistakes on the exam; Comprehensive discussion of all six functional areas covered on the PHR Exam and Practice Questions that include detailed explanations of correct and incorrect answers – so you can learn the material from your success and mistakes.
Instructional Resources
Instructor guides and PowerPoints in
Retailers
California Certification Study Tool by HRCI
Publisher's Description
HRCalifornia is an excellent resource to help you prepare for the PHRca exam. Our digital study tool links the required body of knowledge for California certification to HRCalifornia’s in-depth HR Library pages, helping you find exactly the information you need.
Instructional Resources
This product can be utilized as a reference for PHRca preparation courses.
Retailers
PHRca® Exam Preparation Study Guide by HR Coach
Publisher's Description
The PHRca Exam Preparation Study Guide can be used as an independent self-paced study course in conjunction with our live instructor lead classes. Our study guide is designed specifically to help students pass the HRCI PHRca exam. It gives you all of the
Retailers
PHRca® Preparation Independent Self-Paced Study Course by CalHRSuccess
Publisher's Description
California HR Certification Preparation Independent Self-Paced Study Course. Our program gives you twelve hours of a recorded PowerPoint (PPT) presentation, your own discounted copy of the 367 page,
Retailers
CalChamber California Labor Law Digest (57th edition)
Publisher's Description
As the only book of its kind serving California business, this up-to-date, comprehensive digest details California labor and employment law. It reflects new content to make your job easier, with new laws highlighted to catch your eye. It provides instructions on how to apply existing laws and manage everyday HR issues, such as performing job evaluations, implementing a policy to prevent workplace violence, and handling accessibility inspections. It also explains federal employment laws,
As always, California Labor Law Digest provides legal background information, including legislation, court cases and regulatory requirements in plain language—organized to make complex laws understandable. Plus, it provides access to more than 300 downloadable forms and checklists.
Instructional Resources
This product can be utilized as a reference for PHRca preparation courses.
Retailers
SPHR® Exam Prep - 3rd Edition by Pearson
Publisher's Description
The SPHR Exam Prep, Third Edition is the most comprehensive and up to date book on the market. Unlike other books that teach to both the Senior Professional in Human Resources and Professional in Human Resources exams, this book is focused on just the SPHR exam, providing targeted training. Exam objectives are thoroughly detailed, providing readers precisely the information they need to know to score higher on their exams. The book features the Exam Prep Proven Method of Study which includes Exam Alerts, tips, notes, sidebars, SPHR practice questions, relevant exercises, review breaks, a glossary, objective reference sheet, a practice exam CD, and a full practice exam in the book.
Instructional Resources
Instructor guides and PowerPoints in
Retailers
The PHR®and SPHR® Certification by BenchPrep
Publisher's Description
The PHR® and SPHR® Certification by BenchPrep is the most comprehensive self-study PHR and SPHR exam preparation program. With over 3 million users worldwide, BenchPrep software is recognized as an expert in learner success globally and delivers an unmatched experience that has resulted in a pass rate for learners that is 55% higher than average.
BenchPrep HR is the world's only PHR and SPHR prep program that seamlessly works on web, mobile, and tablet devices so you can learn at your convenience, on your terms, anytime and anywhere (no heavy books required). Gain access to top-tier instructional content from leading HR experts and academic publishers like McGraw-Hill Education, a personalized study schedule with daily goals, over 1,500 PHR and 1,300 SPHR practice questions with detailed answer explanations, full-length practice exams, robust learning analytics, flashcards, and more. Prepare with our full-suite digital learning system and get your certification today! Click here to learn more.
Instructional Resources
Organizations can leverage BenchPrep's Instructional Resources Course Syllabus for 7, 12 or 13 week courses. Other items include a complete set of in-class PowerPoints and discussion topics for each of the 6 functional areas, practice quizzes for each functional area, and an administrative dashboard that highlights all aspects of student progress, such as commonly missed questions, student and group performance on quizzes, and course progress.
Retailers
PHR®/SPHR® Study Course by Distinctive HR
Publisher's Description
The physical PHR/SPHR Self-Study Course includes a study guide (paperback), a set of downloadable audio files (not an audio book; the information in the files builds on the book's main ideas), an updated booklet on the seven essential principles of HRM necessary to pass the exam (The Seven Princes), a set of flashcards, and access to our Learning Management System (LMS) for 1 year from the date your order is processed. The LMS provides access to sample quizzes and tests (including a NEW final exam for both PHR and SPHR candidates), training games, and online training videos that coincide with the study materials. This culminates in ~1200 sample questions. International candidates will receive the digital PHR/SPHR Self-Study Course version which provides access to the same LMS, as well as the downloadable audio files, and PDF versions of both books.
Retailers
PHR®/SPHR® Certification Preparation by HRCP
Publisher's Description
Since 1995, thousands of human resource professionals have used the HRCP Program to successfully prepare for their HR certification exams.The HRCP Program for PHR® and SPHR® exam preparation features six units, one covering each functional area of the exam. This product includes both the print edition of the HRCP Program and the online edition, which includes an audio reader. Each printed unit is separately spiral-bound and includes an index and a list of key terms. Along with more than nine-hundred pages of instruction, the program provides an online Guide for Successful Exam Preparation, two sets of online review questions for each unit, and two online comprehensive, one-hundred question practice exams. The program also includes the HR QuikStudy Flash Cards and online flash cards. Those preparing for the exams can quiz themselves and review key human resource terms and concepts with more than six-hundred convenient, business card-sized flash cards. Internet access is required to view the online edition of the HRCP Program and to take the online practice tests. An up-to-date browser is required to use HRCP’s online practice tests. Use Internet Explorer 10.0 or higher, or an updated Firefox, Chrome, or Safari browser.
Note: Materials purchased through HRCI are subject to HRCI’s return policies and are not eligible for HRCP’s money-back guarantee.
Retailers
Mathis - Human Resource Management
Publisher's Description
Trust the authoritative resource for human resource management to offer the most current look at HR and its impact on today's organizations with both new and thoroughly updated cases and today's most recent examples--90 percent of which are from 2006 and beyond. Mathis/Jackson's HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT, Thirteenth Edition, is the most trusted resource and best-selling HR solution for preparing future or currently practicing HR professionals. Updated, strong academic coverage, including the latest 2009 HRCI outline, ensures this edition addresses all major topics for professional examinations (PHR, SPHR) given by the Human Resource Certification Institute. The latest HR research and a wealth of new and proven learning features in every chapter demonstrate how HR impacts organizational strategy. Reorganized and streamlined topics examine emerging trends in technology, globalization, and HR Metrics, as well as other developments impacting the practice of HR today. A complete package of teaching and learning resources, including new CourseMate online learning tools, helps today's aspiring professionals prepare for
Instructional Resources
Instructor edition available. Instructor site contains powerpoints, cases, test bank, video library, flashcards & a glossary -
Retailers
PHR®/SPHR® WORKBOOK Package by HRReview
The PHR/SPHR WORKBOOK Package by HRReview contains comprehensive study outlines for each of the HR Certification Institute PHR/SPHR Exam Content Outline functional areas, exam tips, important employment and labor legislation, and several hundred multiple-choice questions with detailed answers and the rationale for the correct answers. Also included is the AudioReview CD package with recorded terms and definitions, electronic and downloadable printed flashcards, a free audio coaching session, unlimited online final exams, and the eBook, Human Resource Management Essential Perspectives by Mathis, Jackson, and Valentine.
Instructional Resources
New audio plus workbook edition out now. The workbook has an outline and sample questions. They offer online and in-person courses which include pre-tests, PowerPoints, handouts and audio flashcards for PHR,
Retailers
PHR®/SPHR® Study Guide by Reed/Bogardus
Publisher's Description
This complete update of the bestselling guide to HR certification contains additional coverage of new HR policies and standards, as well as updated practice exam questions and real world scenarios. Key topics include strategic management, workforce planning and employment, compensation and benefits, employee and labor relations, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. This program contains a textbook, CD-ROM with two bonus exams (one each for PHR and SPHR) as well as flashcards and an electronic book.
Instructional Resources
Book and disc can be purchased separately. Instructor companion site includes PowerPoints, student
Retailers
GPHR® Certification Preparation by Distinctive HR
Publisher's Description
The physical GPHR Self-Study Course includes a study guide (paperback), a set of downloadable audio files (not an audio book; the information in the files builds on the book’s main ideas), an updated booklet on the seven essential principles of HRM necessary to pass the exam (The Seven Princes), and access to our Learning Management System (LMS) for 1 year from the date your order is processed. The LMS resources include sample quizzes and tests (including a final exam), training games, and recorded lecture videos that coincide with the study materials. This provides for ~900 practice questions. International candidates will receive the digital GPHR Self-Study version provides access to the same LMS, as well as the downloadable audio files, and PDF versions of both books.
Retailers
G2nd Systems GPHR - Global Professional in Human Resources Preparation Online Course
Publisher's Description
G2nd Systems announces new Online GPHR Preparation Course taught by Lorelei Carobolante and Sandy Miles, recognized global HR experts and authors. This course includes all Functional Areas of the HRCI GPHR Exam Content Outline and helps participants leverage their global HR experience while preparing for the GPHR. We use the latest materials, including: (1) International HR Management textbook (2016 edition by Tarique, Briscoe, Schuler); (2) Six workbooks; (3) Audio review CD/MP3 covering Terminology; (4) Introduction & Self-study methods and all GPHR Functional Areas; (5) Electronic terminology flashcards; and (6) Online practice questions (550+); (7) 100-question GPHR Mid-Term practice exam and a 175-question GPHR Final practice exam at the end of the course. Full credit offered to participants who register for this instructor-led course but have already purchased self-study materials from HR Review.Retailers
GPHR® Study Materials: Online Editions by IHRCI
Publisher's Description
The IHRCI prep material includes five electronic GPHR certification workbooks with PDF format for downloading. By using all of the preparation materials, you will be well-versed in the five key knowledge areas that make up the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) Exam Content Outline for the GPHR. A set of online review test is also included for each session. Our system consists of up-to-date total 800 exam questions of pre-test and post-test through the full length simulated practice tests under the similar testing conditions as the actual GPHR exams. When a test is completed, an overall correct percentage is provided along with the number and percentage of questions answered correctly. The answers with explanations to individual questions are also provided. Our system allows users to save the results of the test so that they can improve upon that later.
Instructional Resources
PowerPoint Slides presentations and test-taking tips are included.
Retailers
GPHR® WORKBOOK Package by HRReview
Publisher's Description
The GPHR® WORKBOOK Package by HRReview contains comprehensive study outlines for each of the HR Certification Institute® GPHR Exam Content Outline functional areas, exam tips, important employment and labor legislation, and several hundred multiple-choice questions with detailed answers and the rationale for the correct answers. Also included is the textbook, Human Resource Management by Tarique, Briscoe, and Schuler, the AudioReview CD package with recorded terms and definitions, electronic and downloadable printed flashcards, a free audio coaching session, and unlimited online final exams.
Retailers
PHRi™ Study Materials: Print and Online Editions by HRCP
Publisher's Description
Since 1995, thousands of human resource professionals have used the HRCP Program to successfully prepare for their HR certification exams.The HRCP Program for PHRi exam preparation features six units, one covering each functional area of the exam. This product includes both the print edition of the PHRi™ Certification Preparation Program and the online edition, which includes an audio reader. Each printed unit is separately spiral-bound and includes an index and a list of key terms. The program also provides online review questions for each unit and a comprehensive, one-hundred question practice exam. Also included are online
Internet access is required to view the online edition of the HRCP Program and to take the online practice tests. An up-to-date browser is required to use HRCP’s online practice tests. Use Internet Explorer 10.0 or higher, or an updated Firefox, Chrome, or Safari browser.
Retailers
PHRi™ Study Materials: Online Editions by IHRCI
Publisher's Description
The IHRCI prep material includes six electronic PHRi certification workbooks with PDF format for downloading. By using all of the preparation materials, you will be well-versed in the six key knowledge areas that make up the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) Exam Content Outline for the PHRi. A set of online review test is also included for each session. Our system consists of up-to-date total 900 exam questions of pre-test and post-test through the full length simulated practice tests under the similar testing conditions as the actual PHRi exams. When a test is completed, an overall correct percentage is provided along with the number and percentage of questions answered correctly. The answers with explanations to individual questions are also provided. Our system allows users to save the results of the test so that they can improve upon that later.
Instructional Resources
PowerPoint Slide presentations and test-taking tips are included.
Retailers
Practice Exams by HRCI
Publisher's Description
HRCI Practice Exams are smart and stress-free ways to get comfortable with the test-taking format and learn about your strengths and weaknesses. If you already know that you want to pursue either a PHR or SPHR credential, you can purchase up to two completely different sets of practice exam questions (volumes) for each credential. Many candidates purchase both sets and take one as they are beginning their studies to identify your strengths and weaknesses; they take the second to see how much they’ve progressed.
HRCI also offers a PHR/SPHR Package – great for those who are eligible for either the PHR or SPHR, but still uncertain about which exam and certification to apply for. The PHR/SPHR Package will help you decide on the best certification for your experience level as an HR professional.
HRCI Practice Exams come in two modes. In Exam Mode, take a timed test and, upon completion, you will receive a score report showing your performance in each content area of the exam. You can then turn to Practice Mode, where you can take your time to focus on areas of weakness, attempt to answer the questions again and receive explanations about the correct answers.
HRCI Practice Exams are now available for the aPHR, PHR, SPHR, PHR/SPHR Package, GPHR, PHRi, SPHRi and PHRca certification exams.
Note: Once you access the practice exams, you have up to 180 days to use it repeatedly by erasing the answers. Example: The code is redeemed on 10/7/2017. It remains valid until 4/3/2018.
Disclaimer: HR Certification Institute® (HRCI®) does not endorse any particular preparation program or offering. We encourage prospective certification holders to use a variety of resources that reflect their learning styles and needs. Purchasing a certification product is NOT required and HRCI does not guarantee that an individual will pass based on the purchase of a certification preparation product.”
SPHRi™Study Materials: Print and Online Editions by HRCP
Publisher's Description
Since 1995, thousands of human resource professionals have used the HRCP Program to successfully prepare for their HR certification exams.
The HRCP Program for SPHRi® exam preparation features four units, one covering each functional area of the exam. This product includes both the print edition of the SPHRi® Certification Preparation Program and the online edition, which includes an audio reader. Each printed unit is separately spiral-bound and includes an index and a list of key terms. The program also provides online review questions for each unit and a comprehensive, one-hundred question practice exam. Also included are online
Retailers
Disclaimer: HR Certification Institute® (HRCI®) does not endorse any particular preparation program or offering. We encourage prospective certification holders to use a variety of resources that reflect their learning styles and needs. Purchasing a certification product is NOT required and HRCI does not guarantee that an individual will pass based on the purchase of a certification preparation product.”
SPHRi™ Study Materials: Online Editions by IHRCI
Publisher's Description
The IHRCI prep material includes four electronic SPHRi certification workbooks with PDF format for downloading. By using all of the preparation materials, you will be well-versed in the four key knowledge areas that make up the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) Exam Content Outline for the SPHRi. A set of online review test is also included for each session. Our system consists of up-to-date total 800 exam questions of pre-test and post-test through the full length simulated practice tests under the similar testing conditions as the actual SPHRi exams. When a test is completed, an overall correct percentage is provided along with the number and percentage of questions answered correctly. The answers with explanations to individual questions are also provided. Our system allows users to save the results of the test so that they can improve upon that later.
Instructional Resources
PowerPoint Slides presentations and test-taking tips are included.
Retailers
Disclaimer: HR Certification Institute® (HRCI®) does not endorse any particular preparation program or offering. We encourage prospective certification holders to use a variety of resources that reflect their learning styles and needs. Purchasing a certification product is NOT required and HRCI does not guarantee that an individual will pass based on the purchase of a certification preparation product.”